An Army Specialist at Fort Bragg Army base in North Carolina allegedly shot his battalion commander to death Thursday before being shot himself in the ensuing struggle.
NBC News is reporting that the alleged shooter was facing court marital and possible discharge for reportedly stealing a $1,700 tool box.
An anonymous Army official told NBC News:
The specialist walked up to his battalion commander, a Lieutenant Colonel, and without warning pulled a pistol and shot the commander three times in the head and twice in the chest. Other soldiers rushed the shooter, who was shot in the head in the ensuing struggle and critically wounded, officials said. A third soldier also suffered a minor gunshot wound.
The shooting took place during a 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade unit safety briefing, according to Col. Kevin Arata, 18th Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg Public Affairs Officer:
"This is a tragedy for our community. We don't yet know the reasons for the shooting, but are working with the unit and the affected families to help them through this difficult period... Our prayers are with those who have been affected by this terrible incident."
The Army Criminal Investigation Command are investigating the deadly shooting. The names of those involved in the shooting have not yet been released, pending notification of family.
According to NBC News, the shooter is not expected to survive.
